Eight-time JUNO Award nominee Ammoye continues to push reggae forward with her vibrant, genre-blending sound. Nominated for Reggae Recording of the Year at the 2026 JUNO Awards, the Jamaican-Canadian artist is being recognized for her joyful collaboration with international powerhouse Samora on “More Reggae (Funk It Up). The track is a bold celebration of unity, rhythm, and cultural connection, reinforcing Ammoye’s place as one of Canada’s leading voices in reggae and fusion music.
Congratulations on your 2026 JUNO nomination for Reggae Recording of the Year. What does this moment mean to you as an eight-time JUNO nominee, and how does it feel compared to previous nominations?
- Thank you! Being nominated for the eighth time at the JUNOS is truly meaningful, especially for “More Reggae/Funk it Up.” This nomination stands out as it’s my first collaboration with an International female artist, highlighting the power of unity and collaboration in reggae. It’s a testament to personal growth, balance, and confidence, reflecting where I am in my career. This moment is not just about the recognition but also about setting a positive example in an industry that often emphasizes competition. It’s exciting to inspire and uplift through music and to continue fostering collaboration and unity.
“More Reggae (Funk It Up)” is such a joyful, genre-blending track. What inspired you and Samora to fuse ska, reggae, and funk so boldly on this collaboration?
- The inspiration to make a fusion track incorporating the elements of reggae, ska, and funk was a natural thing, especially as a Reggae fusion artist, both Samora and I like to fuse different genres together and make it our own unique style. I discussed my vision with Res Samora’s husband and manager, who helped produce the track; he presented several tracks. As soon as I heard this particular beat, it instantly brought me back to my childhood, listening to iconic tunes like The Wailers’ “Simmer Down” and Toots & The Maytals’ “Monkey Man” on the radio and sound systems. The ska and funk elements evoked a deep nostalgia and inspired me to create something upbeat and joyful. I knew this track would energize the audience, inviting them to get activated, move and find joy and healing. My intent as a creator is to heal, uplift and inspire my listeners, helping them shift from complacency to a higher vibration. Samora and I share this vision, and our collaboration was a natural and high-vibe synergy.
Your collaborator Samora brings a truly global background to the song. How did your creative energies come together, and what did you learn from working with an artist from such a diverse cultural landscape?
- My collaboration with Samora was born from mutual respect and a shared vision, and it truly highlighted the power of global influences. We initially connected in 2020 and stayed connected over social media for a few years, and then meeting her in person after performing at Reeperbahn when I was invited to work together in Bern, Switzerland, was effortless and inspiring. I learned a lot from Samora’s bold approach to music and creativity. She reminds me of a famous quote we say in Jamaica, “We little but we talawah” which means we might be small, but we are mighty and powerful. Seeing her work reinforced the importance of embracing authenticity and boldness in the creative process. Working with her showed me how different cultural perspectives can blend seamlessly to create something truly special and meaningful.
The track celebrates unity, love, justice, and collaboration. How intentional was that message, especially in today’s social and political climate?
- The intentional message behind “More Reggae/Funk it Up” was to bring joy and upliftment, especially in today’s chaotic world. I wanted the song to be a beacon of positivity, unity, and healing, offering a refreshing escape from the negativity and fear in the social and political climate. By infusing the track with the energy of joy and collaboration, I aimed to remind listeners of the importance of coming together and celebrating life. It was deeply intentional to create a track that lifts spirits and fosters a sense of community and love.
Sonically, the song is driven by vibrant horns, a groovy bassline, and an infectious call-and-response chorus. What elements were essential for you to get right to make the song feel authentic and uplifting?
- For me, the key elements to making the song feel authentic and uplifting were definitely the call-and-response aspect and the vibrant energy. The call-and-response invites the audience to be a part of the performance, making them feel included and engaged. Additionally, the vibrant horns and groovy bass line help maintain that uplifting vibe. It was crucial to keep the song’s essence rooted in unity, joy, harmony and togetherness. This combination ensures that the song not only feels authentic but also creates a joyful and inclusive experience for everyone.
You’ve shared stages with an incredibly wide range of artists—from Ziggy Marley and Chronixx to Michael Bublé and Arkells. How have these diverse collaborations shaped your approach to reggae and fusion music?
- Collaborating with a diverse range of artists has profoundly shaped my approach to reggae and fusion music. Sharing the stage with Ziggy Marley felt like connecting with my roots, as Bob Marley, his dad was and still is my biggest influence and inspiration for why I do reggae music, his presence mirrors the authentic, heart-centered performance that I strive for. Working with artists like Michael Bublé and the Arkells also taught me to incorporate diverse influences, from jazz to rock, into my reggae fusion. From artists like Chronix and Sean Paul, I’ve learned not only what to do but also what not to do, turning each experience into a valuable lesson. It’s like being in a classroom, where every artist’s performance teaches me what works and what doesn’t. These lessons help me blend different influences into my own unique sound, ensuring that I remain authentic and ever-evolving.
Your sophomore album Water marked a major turning point, earning both a JUNO nomination and Grammy consideration. Looking back, how did that project change the trajectory of your career?
- Water marked a significant chapter of growth and visibility for me, opening doors to new creative opportunities. Through my travels and collaborations, I’ve learned from diverse cultures and connected with people worldwide. This has broadened my perspective and deepened my commitment to unity and collaboration over competition. Collaborating with artists like Samora not only amplifies my visibility but also infuses my music with rich, global influences, creating a bridge between cultures. This global perspective enriches my creative process and helps me connect with like-minded individuals around the world. Ultimately, “Water” has empowered me and shifted the trajectory of my career, preparing me to approach new projects with openness, collaboration, and confidence.
Touring has taken you to major festivals across North America, Europe, Africa, and South America. How do international audiences respond differently to your music, and what connects them all?
- Touring internationally has shown me how deeply audiences connect with my music. Around the world, fans are incredibly appreciative, often expressing deep emotion and resonance with my songs. This response is both affirming and inspiring, highlighting the powerful, healing energy of the music. While each region has its own unique response, the universal connection lies in the genuine appreciation and the shared healing that music brings. This experience shapes my career by reinforcing my commitment to spreading positivity and connection globally, and it motivates me to continue growing and evolving my fanbase in an authentic way.
You’ve been recognized not only as a vocalist but also as an entertainer, winning major awards in 2024. How do you balance technical vocal performance with creating an unforgettable live experience?
- Balancing technical vocal performance with creating an unforgettable live experience comes naturally to me because of my deep love for music. For me, music is a form of self-expression, and that joy naturally translates into my performances. My intention is to connect with my audience on a soulful, heart-to-heart level, and that authenticity makes the balance between vocal precision and live energy effortless. I aim to share that joy and authenticity, making each performance a genuine reflection of who I am. Ultimately, this balance is effortless because it’s all about passion and genuine expression.
As you head into JUNO weekend in Hamilton with new recognition and momentum, what’s next for you creatively—and what do you hope listeners take away from “More Reggae (Funk It Up)”?
- As I head into JUNO weekend in Hamilton, I’m filled with excitement, humility and gratitude. This recognition fuels the momentum for my upcoming album, The Shift, which will be accompanied by my first book, Ammoye’s Book of Affirmations. This project is all about guiding listeners to harness the power of their words and energy and to manifest positivity.From “More Reggae/Funk it Up”, I hope listeners experience a joyful shift away from the chaos of the world, reconnecting with their inner child and higher selves, embracing harmony and healing. Ultimately, I want the song to inspire them to be playful, to find balance, and to remember the power of unity and joy. Also to remind my listeners to observe and not absorb when it comes to the noise and chaos happening around us at this time in our world. Go within and find your joy as best as you can and express themselves from that space.
With a JUNO nomination, a global touring resume, and a catalogue rooted in purpose and joy, Ammoye shows no signs of slowing down. As she heads into JUNO weekend in Hamilton, “More Reggae (Funk It Up)” stands as both a celebration and a call to come together—through music, movement, and message—proving once again that reggae’s heartbeat is as powerful and relevant as ever.
